From Biloxi to Ventura: the evolution of the blueberry in Peru
VU
In 2016, Peru had 13 blueberry varieties, with Biloxi accounting for almost 60% of the plantings.
In 2016, Peru had 13 blueberry varieties, with Biloxi accounting for almost 60% of plantations. Over time, Ventura became the dominant variety, displacing the traditional ones due to rapid genetic turnover, according to the Peruvian Association of Blueberry Exporters (Proarándanos).
Peru currently grows some 65 blueberry varieties. Biloxi and Ventura represent 47% of the total, while the rest includes options such as Sekoya Pop, Rocío, Emerald, Atlasblue, Eureka, Scintilla, Stella Blue, among others. Although since 2023 the pace of new plantings has slowed, newer varieties continue to drive growth in volume and quality.
Proarándanos reported that through week 48 of the 2024-25 season, Ventura continues to be the most demanded variety in international markets, standing out despite the increasing supply of new genetics.
source: blueberriesconsulting.com, agraria.pe
photo: peru.info